| | Presbyterian college|magazine PC Confers Degrees
Southern inspiration
Great Presbyterian, Hail to Thee
Summer 2015
Spirit of Service Dr. Austin Raunikar ’83 Chief of Staff Greenville Health System
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Pillar Society Add to your collection & Support current students and faculty Members of the Pillar Society represent the College’s alumni and friends who have displayed steadfast and consistent financial support to the Annual Fund. Add your name to the Pillar Society Honor Roll. Any size. Any type. Every gift makes a difference. See the Pillar Society Honor Roll and make a gift online at
www.presby.edu/giving/the-pillar-society or mail to: Presbyterian College Annual Fund 503 S. Broad St., Clinton, S.C. 29325
Thank you to those alumni who have already made a gift this year!
Board of Trustees Names Bob Staton ‘68 as President The Presbyterian College Board of Trustees is proud to announce that Robert (Bob) Emmett Staton ’68 has been selected to serve as president of PC effective July 15, while a nationwide search is conducted for a new president for the College. Staton is a 1968 graduate of PC and a 1971 graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Law. He went on to become the chairman and CEO of Colonial Life before retirement and currently serves on the board of Delta Apparel, a publically traded company with executive offices in Greenville, S.C. He is a member of numerous state and local civic organizations and has been recognized by the South Carolina State Chamber of Commerce as Business Leader of the Year and was awarded the Order of the Palmetto by Governor Jim Hodges. Staton served as a member of PC’s Board of Trustees from 1997-2006, serving on and chairing several committees. He also served as chair of the College’s Promise and Challenge capital campaign. In January 2007, he joined PC’s administration as executive vice president for external relations until 2012. At the 2015 Commencement ceremonies, Staton received an honorary doctorate of public service degree from the College. Staton and his wife, Phyllis, currently reside in Lexington, S.C. and will move to Clinton in late-July. Phyllis retired after a fifty year career at Palmetto Health Baptist and Richland, most recently having worked as manager of the Breast Centers. Staton has four children, Chris, Lindsay, Rob ’97 and Jason ’99 and currently serves as an elder at Cherokee Presbyterian Church in Gilbert, S.C. “I am honored to have been selected to serve PC in this role,” said Staton. “PC has played a significant role in my life and that of my family. Phyllis and I are excited to have the opportunity to help shape PC’s future. We are excited about the opportunity to work closely with the students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Clinton community to move PC into the future.” “Bob has been a faithful member of the PC community for many years and we are excited to have him serve as president,” said PC Board of Trustees Chairman, Pat Phillips. “He will guide PC as the Board of Trustees and the Presidential Selection Committee conduct an extensive search for the next president of the College. I am looking forward to what Bob will do as president of PC.”
Presbyterian college|magazine
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Presbyterian college|magazine
Presbyterian College | magazine Volume 66 Issue 2
TABLE of
Contents
Summer 2015
Adm i n i s t r a t i o n Vice President of Advancement, Marketing, Public Relations and Communications Grady Jones a l u m n i r e l at i o n s O f f i c e Executive Director of Alumni Relations Leni Patterson ’83 Administrative Assistant Margaret Brown
Contributing writers
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Dr. Austin Raunikar ’83 credits PC for his spirit of service As chief of staff at Greenville Health System, Dr. Raunikar exemplifies Dum Vivimus Servimus Exposing Blue Hose to Other Corners of the World Trips to Cuba and Turkey broaden students’ horizons
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2 0 1 5 C o mm e n c e m e n t College of Arts and Sciences / School of Pharmacy
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William Plumer Jacobs Society PC honors its most distinguished donors
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Director of Marketing Alyssa Ludwiczak Guest Writer Claire Rozeman Guest Writer Molly Gunson
C r e at i v e Creative Director Jonathan Hooks
H o n o r s D ay D i s p l ay s S t u d e n t E x c e l l e n c e Students present major research projects and are recognized for outstanding achievements
S t u d e n t - A t h l e t e s Em b o d y M o t t o of Service to Others Women’s softball embraces year-long commitment to “While we live, we serve” Harold Nichols ’90 Named Big South Co-Coach of the Year Gains in the win column pay off for head coach
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T h r e e m e m b e r s o f t h e P C F a m i ly R e t i r i n g Dr. John Inman ’73, Teresa Inman ’74, and Professor Sam Howell ’74
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Sp e c i a l O l y mp i c s Long-standing tradition continues
S o u t h e r n I n s p i r at i o n Mellon Grant provides funds to weave together the history of textiles in South Carolina
Alumni Alumni Updates Classnotes In Memory Of
Presbyterian College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The College seeks to hire the most qualified candidate and does not discriminate against any legally protected class. Barbara Fayad, Vice President of Human Resources and Title IX Coordinator, 503 South Broad Street, Clinton, South Carolina 29325 Phone 864.938.3722
C ONTA C TS ALU M NI 8 6 4 . 9 3 8 . 3 7 5 7 M AGA Z INE 8 6 4 . 8 3 3 . 8 2 8 1 C LASSNOTES 8 6 4 . 9 3 8 . 3 7 5 7 s u pp o r t P C 8 6 4 . 8 3 3 . 8 0 0 7 P C M AGA Z INE @ P RESBY. E D U TWITTER @ P RESBY C OLLEGE Fa c eb o o k . c o m/ presbyteri a nco l l eg e
P r e s b y. e d u 2
Spring Fling 2015 carnival activities
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Alumni Stories
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Dr. Austin Raunikar Credits PC for His Spirit of Service
hen asked if he always knew medicine would be his chosen field, Dr. Austin Raunikar ’83 responded, “I came to PC with medicine clearly in mind.” Originally from Georgia, Dr. Raunikar came to love the Upstate community when he was an undergraduate at Presbyterian College from 1979 to 1983. “I chose PC because I wanted to be a name and not a number. That’s what sets PC apart from other colleges. I chose PC because they had a track record of getting students into medical school, and the faculty was hands-on in teaching, guiding, and encouraging us to get there.” After graduating from the Medical College of Georgia (MCG), Dr. Raunikar completed his residency in pediatrics and fellowship in pediatric cardiology at the MCG Children’s Hospital in Augusta, Ga. In 1994, Dr. Raunikar and his wife moved to Greenville. At that time, Dr. Raunikar began serving as a pediatric cardiologist at the Greenville Health System (GHS) Children’s Hospital, providing inpatient and outpatient care for children with birth heart defects, and children and teens with dysrhythmias, chest pain, and syncope. Dr. Raunikar was also a faculty member at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in both Greenville and Columbia. There he helped train pediatric residents, family practice residents, and medical students in pediatric cardiology. He also helped train pre-med and medical students in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. In 2004, Dr. Raunikar was promoted to president of the medical staff at GHS. The position includes leading the GHS Medical Executive Committee, championing physician leadership in the system, and providing support on projects such as a Best Prescriptive Practices Task
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Force, which improves the quality of service to patients with greater savings to patients and insurers. This year he celebrated 10 years of teaching and leading teams as a pediatric services coordinator for Resource Exchange International. Dr. Raunikar has served in that role in four children’s hospitals in Vietnam since 2001. He has built teaching teams that have been sent to Hanoi, Danang, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. Dr. Raunikar recognizes the importance of community service and outreach endeavors. “It was Student Volunteer Services at Presbyterian College that got me thinking outside the box for medical care,” explains Dr. Raunikar. “Those experiences in volunteerism have led to a lot of what I’m currently doing. PC was crucial in giving me a desire to care for underserved populations and in planting the seeds of service and volunteerism. ” His dedication to service and passion for teaching in South Carolina, Venezuela, India, China, and Vietnam were “inspired by many role models at PC – Ed Gouge, Fred James, Bob Hudson, and John Inman ’73, just to name a few.” Dr. Raunikar recognizes that PC’s faculty is instrumental in preparing students as future healthcare providers. “PC has a long history of preparing its alumni to be effective members of healthcare teams.” He credits faculty who “mentored and molded” him into the person he is today.
Dr. Austin Raunikar `83 Chief of Staff, Greenville Healthcare System
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PC’s Approach to Health Sciences Evolves Alongside Ever-Changing Healthcare Field Like the faculty that inspired Dr. Austin Raunikar, currently PC faculty members continue to influence future healthcare professionals. The relationships between faculty and students, especially those born out of quality research projects, give students an opportunity to learn and grow alongside some of the brightest minds in their fields, preparing for the ever-changing healthcare world. Dr. Raunikar foresees that healthcare services in South Carolina will evolve from a “productivity, fee-for-service model to a value-based model – focusing on the ‘Triple Aim:’ excellent care, low cost, and patient satisfaction,” said Dr. Raunikar. “More than ever, physicians will become healthcare team leaders – coordinating care with nurses, mid-level care providers, pharmacists, therapists, and an informed and actively involved patient. The solo practitioner will be replaced with integrated teams of nurses, pharmacists, case managers, advanced care practitioners, and others led by physicians working in healthcare systems.” This shift in healthcare models is why Dr. Cliff Fuhrman, dean of the Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy, hopes to focus the School of Pharmacy’s curriculum on the South Carolina healthcare system, and more specifically the Upstate. A major tenet of the Era of Excellence, announced last year, includes increasing enrollment in Presbyterian College’s health science programs and expanding opportunities for community service and outreach. According to Dr. Fuhrman, PC is in the exploratory stages of expanding the health science programs offered at the College. The PC School of Pharmacy graduated its first class in 2014 and has experienced great success since its founding in 2009. Raunikar agrees that it’s in the best interest of the school to grow
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“More than ever, physicians will become
healthcare team leaders – coordinating
care with nurses, mid-level care providers, pharmacists, therapists, and an informed and actively involved patient. The solo
practitioner will be replaced with integrated teams of nurses, pharmacists, case managers, advanced care
practitioners, and
others led by physicians working in healthcare systems.”
- Dr. Raunikar ’83
programs that can attract increasing numbers of high caliber faculty and students to PC’s campus. “It’s beneficial for PC to expand their healthcare education programs because successful healthcare now requires a strong foundation in the sciences, critical thinking skills, and leadership and interpersonal skills.” Increasing the number of health science programs at PC is “simply the next logical step forward” if the College hopes to remain relevant in the new healthcare model. Health science programs are a natural fit for PC. The service-oriented nature and mission of health sciences mirrors PC’s motto – Dum Vivimus Servimus, as well as the PC School of Pharmacy’s motto “Care for the Community.” Dr. Fuhrman and Dr. Raunikar agree that the most important aspect of their professions is determining what they can do to help other people. Incorporating a desire to help those in need and adapting current programs to align with the new aims of the S.C. healthcare system – effectiveness for the patient, excellence in quality care, and reducing redundancies and inadequacies to cut costs – will ensure that PC graduates can compete and thrive in every healthcare profession.
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Campus News
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Exposing Blue Hose to Other Corners of the World
uring this year’s Spring Break, students traveled to Istanbul, Turkey with faculty from the history department and to Havana, Cuba with members of the political science department.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a majestic city that was once the second capital of the Roman Empire, as well as the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Istanbul is located in both Asia and Europe with a Middle Eastern influence. Students were able to visit spectacular mosques and churches such as the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. While the government is secular, many of the citizens are Muslims. Students had fun bartering in the Grand Bazaar and roaming the countless rooms in the Topkapi Palace. Other favorite activities included visiting Turkish baths and experiencing the breezes and beauty of the Bosphorus Sea.
Havana, Cuba
Fifteen students toured Havana and the surrounding countryside, experiencing a city with a vibrant history. They visited the Museum of the Revolution, explored a local tobacco farm, visited the painted caves, met party leaders, and talked to members of the Federation of Cuban Women. “It was a great experience to go where a lot of Americans can’t go. It was great to be able to experience a government system that doesn’t really exist in a lot of places in the world
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today. It was different from what I expected. Communism in Cuba is not what I thought communism would be. It was very interesting to see a different culture and another way of life,” said sophomore Mary Kate Bartlett. Fellow sophomore Caroline Moss said, “One of my favorite parts of the trip was having the opportunity to talk with everyday people. The thing that surprised me the most... was how well they understood the U.S. government. I was also surprised at how content the citizens seemed to be with their government.” “We saw some of the more positive aspects of socialism. Their healthcare is free, and Cuba has some of the best doctors in the world,” said junior Shelly Rowan. “Also, their education is free; all levels of education, even up to a doctorate. That’s something they believe in, educating and taking care of their citizens. It makes you realize that even though we want the same things for our people, there are different ways of achieving it. I think finding a way to appreciate other societies and other governments, which is what we did through this trip, is very eye opening.”
One Hundred Thirty-Second Commencement Exercises 9
Commencement 2015
PC Confers Degrees to more than 300 Graduates More than 300 students earned degrees Saturday, May 9, during Presbyterian College’s 132nd commencement ceremonies. Introductions and reflections were given by PC President Dr. Claude C. Lilly, who encouraged the graduates to honor the founder of PC by giving back to their alma mater and seizing the opportunities that will come along in life. “You and I stand on the shoulders of individuals, like William Plumer Jacobs, who have gone before, and we stand on the shoulders of the faculty and staff who support this institution every day. You and I have a responsibility to support PC so that future generations will stand on the shoulders of what we have done.” “Paul focused on this concept when he said in 1st Corinthians, Chapter Three: `According to the grace of God given to me, like a master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it.´ Please strive to build on the foundation you have laid here using the gold, silver, and precious stones of your service to mankind and your core values.” Commencement addresses were given by 2015 Outstanding Senior Paul Blanton Rice and Professor of the Year Dr. John Justin Brent, professor of English and chair of the department.
Robert Emmett Staton, Sr. ’68 received the honorary doctorate of public service degree. Mr. Staton was a member of PC’s Board of Trustees from 1997-2006, serving on and chairing several committees. He also served as chair of the College’s Promise and Challenge capital campaign. In January 2007, he joined PC’s administration as executive vice president for external relations until 2012.
Mr. Staton is a 1968 graduate of PC and a 1971 graduate of the University of
South Carolina School of Law.
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Mr. Staton and his wife reside in Lexington, S.C.
Senior Says PC has “a spirit of giving” Paul Rice is an English major, with minors in both history and Chinese studies, and a GPA of 3.99. In his commencement address, Paul said, “As we stand here decked out in caps and gowns, it’s time to celebrate our own graduation, but also honor those who have made this place a home for us in the meantime. Most of the rest of today will be about us, the graduating class, but it took hundreds of people to prop us up, feed us, whop us upside the head, and always be standing in the wings if we needed them. Though we are the ones crossing the stage, they are the ones who command our respect and honor year after year. PC is essentially a place where people share their lives, forging a community based on that spirit of giving.” “It is the people of PC who make the difference here. Professors share their lives here. I’ll bet that every one of us here has some professor, coach, or faculty member whom we look up to, who has made an enormous impact in our lives. They are the pillars who keep endless office hours, who answer back-to-back emails at 3 a.m., or who accept tear-stained essays at the last minute, who temper their sternness with love. That’s the kind of college I want to go to; that’s the kind of college I’m glad to have attended, where compassion comes first and kindness is a bedrock.” Paul is the son of Charles and Caren Rice of Hartwell, Ga.
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Commencement 2015
Professor Encourages Graduates to “kick off their shoes” Dr. John Brent earned his undergraduate degree from Furman University and his doctorate from the State University of New York, Stony Brook. He teaches both general education courses and upper-level courses for the English department, focusing primarily on early English literature and linguistics. Recently, Dr. Brent developed a media studies minor and now teaches the introductory course for the minor. Much of his energy at Presbyterian College has focused on the connections between a liberal arts curriculum and future career paths. He has piloted courses that promote service learning and writing and research skills. Dr. Brent said, “And so on this day that for so many of you seems like an ending, I send you a message from the poet who understood that every ending is actually a beginning, that dead ends to the discerning eye are opportunities to get out and walk, and that tears of sadness in the blink of an eye can metamorphose into tears of joy. The message is this: Don’t be afraid of change – place your finger on the pulse of it. Take your shoes off and walk around in it, to better feel the changing terrain.” Dr. Brent and his wife reside in Clinton.
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ROTC Commissioning Ceremony Ten Highlander Battalion cadets were commissioned as second lieutenants in the United States Army during this year’s ROTC Commissioning Ceremony. The battalion is composed of students from Presbyterian College, Lander University, and Newberry College. Several prestigious awards were presented to cadets, including the Wysor Saber Award, the Kimberly Hampton Leadership Award, and the Spirit of the Claymore Award. The newly commissioned PC cadets include: Tiffany Lucas, Darion Moore, Cam Porter, William Sohm, and Allston Warren. Cadets who receive these awards distinguished themselves while participating in the ROTC program. Special speaker was Major General Barrye L. Price, Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1 U.S. Army Force Command. Col. (Ret.) Victor S. Vierra ’57 was the newest inductee to the PC ROTC Hall of Fame. His daughter, Lisa Vierra-Moore ’83, and grandson, Sawyer Hatch ’18, accepted the award on his behalf. In 1975, Col. Vierra was assigned as the battalion commander of the Joint Security Police at Pan Mun Jom, Korea. This is considered one of the most prestigious assignments in all the Armed Forces. It proved to be the most fateful assignment of his career. This job brought him
and his men, a mix of U.S. and South Korean soldiers, into daily physical contact with the North Korean guards. On August 18, 1976, North Korean guards executed a violently brutal attack on some of his soldiers, resulting in two U.S. fatalities. At President Ford’s direction, the battalion developed a plan to retaliate along with naval, air and ground forces, called Operation Paul Bunyan. Again, Col. Vierra was assigned to lead the Operation as Task Force Vierra. The operation was a complete success, resulting in no further loss of life. On behalf of her father, Mrs. Vierra-Moore presented BG (Ret.) Rick Porter ’78, LTC Brian Donley, and Dr. Claude C. Lilly each with a “United Nations Command Security Battalion, Commander’s Coin for Excellence” and presented the ROTC Highlander Battalion with a framed picture and commemoration of the Pan Mun Jom incident that her father had received on one of his many trips back to South Korea. Top Left:Ten Highlander Battalion Cadets were commissioned as second lieutenants. Cam Porter’s Lt. bars were pinned on by his mother, Sally Porter ‘79 and his father, BG Rick Porter ‘78, USA (Ret.). Mrs. Vierra-Moore presents a photo from the Pan Mun Jom incident on behalf of her father.
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School of Pharmacy Doctoral Hooding Ceremony Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy held its Hooding Ceremony on May 8, in Belk Auditorium. The class of 2015 professional degree candidates formally received their academic hood representing their pharmacy profession. The first dean of the pharmacy school, Dr. Dick Stull, received an honorary doctorate of public service degree.
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Baccalaureate Held on Eve of Graduation A baccalaureate service for the College of Arts & Sciences was held on May 8, at 6 p.m. in Belk Auditorium. The baccalaureate message was given by The Rev. Dr. Allen McSween, PC Board of Trustees member and grandson of Dr. John McSween, the 11th president of Presbyterian College.
Teacher Induction Ceremony The Presbyterian College Education Department held its Induction Ceremony on May 8, in the Mabry-Smith-Yonce Center, recognizing students who successfully completed all graduation requirements and are recommended for teacher certification. During this ceremony, graduates affirmed their commitment and dedication to the teaching profession by collectively reciting the oath for graduating educators. Each graduate was individually recognized as they publicly began the transition from pre-service educators to professional educators. Featured speakers were Mrs. Valerie Jones, Laurens County School District 56 Teacher of the Year, and PC President Dr. Claude C. Lilly.
Seniors Give Back to Alma Mater During a senior luncheon, the Class of 2015 presented Dr. Lilly and PC with a check for $9,554 towards the College’s Annual Fund. The class had a 67-percent rate of giving.
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Honors Day Displays Student Excellence
ndergraduate research at Presbyterian College provides students with opportunities to conduct in-depth research under the supervision of our accomplished faculty.
These experiences culminate in the celebration of PC’s annual Honors Day Symposium. The 2015 Symposium was held on April 16, along with the Honors Day Convocation. This event honored PC students who have exhibited outstanding accomplishments in their academic efforts, as well as students who have excelled in all areas of campus life. “The opportunity for students to explore their intellectual interests and to develop concomitant solutions is critical if society is to address today’s
Seniors Receive Class Rings The Office of Alumni Relations sponsored the Third Annual Presbyterian College Class Ring Ceremony, where thirty-one students received their rings with family members and friends in attendance. As is tradition, the rings “spent the night” in the Archives of the library in the office of the founder, William Plumer Jacobs. Prior to receiving their rings from President Dr. Claude C. Lilly, the students heard from Leni Patterson ’83, executive director of alumni relations, about the history and significance of the PC class ring.
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challenges and to prepare for the future,” explains President Dr. Claude C. Lilly. “Research — particularly at liberal arts colleges — allows innovative scholarship at a very high level.” Honors Day offers participating students an opportunity to present the results of their scholarly work to the PC community and showcases year-long projects related to art, literary, humanist and scientific efforts. Featured on the next page is a small sample of the outstanding research presented during Honors Day.
Paul McGannon ’15
Lynne O’Donoghue ’16
Taylor Patti ’15
B.S. Chemistry, minors in music, math, and physics Summa cum laude, Honors in Chemistry Fort Mill, S.C.
Fourth Year Pharmacy Student Stanley, N.C.
B.S. Psychology, minor in biology Cum laude Clover, S.C.
Paul received a fellowship to attend UNC-Chapel Hill in fall of 2015 to pursue a Ph.D. in physical chemistry. What is the focus of your Honors Day research? The title of the research is “Attaching Gold Nanoparticles to Silica Substrates through Organosilane Linkers.” The goal was to attach gold nanoparticles to glass to make substrates, improving results obtained from Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy can help us understand the catalytic ability of gold nanoparticles. Why is the Honors Day experience important to PC students? Honors Day is important because it showcases PC students. At larger schools, students might not get the opportunity to do research projects like the ones displayed during Honors Day. Plus, students get the experience of presenting posters or presentations in a symposium environment. How does Honors Day set PC apart? It sets PC apart by giving students the opportunity to present their work from Honors research or from Capstone. At other schools, students might not even get any research experience, but it is a major aspect of PC. By letting us present on Honors Day, PC rewards students for the extra work that goes into doing research projects.
After graduation, Lynne plans to pursue a residency and specialize in psychiatric or oncologic pharmacy practice. She hopes to stay in either North or South Carolina. What is the focus of your Honors Day research? Determining the alteration of the FGD1 protein in tumors that are at high risk for metastasis. What is your favorite part about the Honors Day experience? It’s being able to represent the PC School of Pharmacy and share research that the faculty and I have been working on throughout the past few semesters. It is important to be able to present this research because of the impact it could have in the healthcare field. How does Honors Day set PC apart? PC gives students opportunities to work with faculty, undergraduate, and graduate students in areas that are interesting and potentially groundbreaking. Honors Day shows that the school recognizes our hard work and dedication, which serves to build confidence and pride for our programs and future academic endeavors. Not only that, but PC makes us feel less like an institution and more like a community.
Taylor plans to continue her education by starting graduate school in January in hopes of earning a DPT degree, which is a three-year program. In the meantime, she has two physical therapy internships this summer — one at HealthSouth and the other at Piedmont Medical Center, both in Rock Hill. She will also travel to Romania in October to do volunteer physical therapy work for underprivileged citizens. What is the focus of your Honors Day research? My research focused on the anatomy of the knee, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage and the surrounding bones and muscles. The sub-focus was tissue regeneration and reconstruction and knee replacements. I focused particularly on injuries to the ACL and MCL, as these are very common injuries seen in physical therapy - the occupation I wish to pursue. Why is the Honors Day experience important to PC students? It gives everyone a chance to learn about topics that are not taught in their field of study; it makes for a well-rounded student. It’s important for the students presenting, because it gives us a chance to show everyone that we have worked hard to get where we are, and that we are very knowledgeable on our subject of interest. How does Honors Day set PC apart? Honors research allows students to study independently a topic of interest and gives them the opportunity to present material that is special to them. It gives students motivation to learn past the bounds of the classroom - I don’t know of many schools that encourage that.
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Presbyterian College Hosts William Plumer Jacobs Society Recognition
resbyterian College hosted the annual appreciation dinner for the members of the William Plumer Jacobs (WPJ) Society the evening of April 23 in the College’s Mabry-Smith-Yonce Building.
The PC Board of Trustees established the WPJ Society in 1982 to recognize and honor those individuals, churches, foundations, and corporations who have made gifts to the College of $100,000 or more. Named for the founder of the College, the society celebrates annually with the trustees, faculty, and administration. The celebration provides an opportunity for PC to express appreciation for the generosity of society members and to welcome new members to the group.
Marvin and Rebecca Turner 2015 Distinguished Members of WPJ Society
After working out the details with Dr. Jack Presseau, Marvin and Rebecca Turner established an endowed scholarship in April of 1994 — the Marvin S. and Rebecca S. Turner Scholarship Fund — to be awarded to Presbyterian Church USA students who were rising juniors or seniors engaged in the Christian Education Program with intent to enter into ministry in the Presbyterian Church. The initial contribution to establish the scholarship was $15,000. Many students have benefited from the vision and generosity of the Turners throughout the past 21 years. The Turners were long-time Clinton residents whose son, Dr. Steve Turner, graduated from Presbyterian College and later earned a Ph.D. in psychology. Just last year, Mrs. Turner passed away at the age of 99. She had been a resident of Bailey Manor for many years. Steve was a prolific artist, and his artwork was displayed throughout Bailey Manor and in his mother’s room. Steve passed away in October of 2012. This past November, PC was informed that the Turners had set up a planned gift for the value of their estate to be donated to the Marvin S. and Rebecca S. Turner Scholarship Fund. The legacy of their vision and philanthropy led to an additional $1.2 million being contributed to their scholarship.
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Tom Free
Tom Free graduated from Presbyterian College in 1991, with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and went on to earn a master’s degree in social science education from the University of South Florida. Currently, Tom works as a firefighter paramedic for the Safety Harbor Fire Department in Florida. He resides in Saint Petersburg. Tom said, “The value of the education I received while a student far outweighs my ability to give back to PC. The caring faculty and administration, combined with the tremendous sense of student community, greatly impacted the person I have become.” Tom continued, “I have been honored to assist in supporting the advancement of Presbyterian’s educational and athletic endeavors.” Tom recently established the Patriots Scholarship at PC to assist those who have served in the military to attend PC.
Gordon Glaspey
Gordon Glaspey graduated from Presbyterian College in 1983, with a degree in business administration. That same year Gordon was named the PC economics and business administration department’s Student Athlete of the Year. Gordon is currently living in Waxhaw, N.C. He sold his interest in a wholesale insurance brokerage in 2012, and is now an individual investor. Gordon contributes to the Scotsman Club to support PC athletics. He has two reasons for doing so: He received an athletic scholarship his freshman year at PC, and he is impressed by the unique student experience offered by the College. “I proudly tell our story to anyone who asks me what a Blue Hose is when they see me wearing my PC apparel. I usually have the words Blue Hose somewhere on my chest or on my head,” said Gordon. “I take great pride in telling anyone about a football player researching nanotechnology as a means of detecting PED’s, or of a basketball player pursuing dual majors in math and chemistry in three years before transferring to Clemson to become an engineer.”
J.R. and Catherine Swetenburg
J.R. “Dick” Swetenburg Jr. graduated from Clemson University in 1956, with a degree in textile engineering. He spent his career in textile manufacturing management, working for Milliken, Pacolet Manufacturing Company in Gainesville, Ga., and Clinton Mills, Inc., in Clinton. Dick has since retired and lives in Clinton with his wife, Catherine. Though neither of them attended PC, the couple said they are blessed to have been able to raise their family near PC because of the many opportunities the College provided for the community in the fields of art, music, and sports. “We are Presbyterians and are grateful for the life and heritage of Dr. William Plumer Jacobs, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, founder of Thornwell Home for Children, and Presbyterian College,” said Dick. “Over the years, we have enjoyed getting to know and have appreciated many wonderful Presbyterian College members of the administration, faculty, and student body, as they have joined us in the life and service of First Presbyterian Church.”
The Rev. Dr. Jack Renard Presseau and Jane Todd Presseau
The Rev. Dr. Jack Renard Presseau and Jane Todd Presseau are both retired, but each served Presbyterian College in different capacities. Jack was named Cornelson Professor Emeritus of Christian Religion in 1998, after 33 years of service at PC. He was responsible for establishing the religion-Christian education major, which produced over 150 graduates. He also began the Student Volunteer Services Program at PC nearly 50 years ago. Jack graduated from Indiana State University, received his master’s of divinity from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and his master’s in Christian education from the Presbyterian School of Education. He earned his doctorate in religious education from the University of Pittsburgh. In 1970, Jane became the first student services librarian, teaching research methods, and earning the rank of associate professor of library science. Before serving at PC, she taught elementary school students and was a middle school librarian in several schools. She was an adjunct professor at Furman University and the University of South Carolina. She graduated from Erskine College, Peabody College of Vanderbilt University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Jack and Jane started the Summer Missionary Scholarships because “many students’ families had limited resources,” said Jack. “The awards were designed to give students the bulk of the money needed for this service, which they could supplement by fundraising if needed.” Dr. and Mrs. Presseau reside in Flat Rock, N.C.
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Student-Athletes Embody Motto of Service to Others The Presbyterian College women’s softball team made it all the way to the Big South Championship game and boasted a record of 25-25 for their 2015 season. While these stats and their wins over University of North Carolina-Wilmington, Charleston Southern, and South Carolina State are impressive, it is the time and energy this team has committed to the PC motto, “While we live, we serve” that really puts the team in the spotlight. PC’s softball team takes the College’s motto to heart and has spent time off the field volunteering with organizations such as Greenville Children’s Hospital, the HOPE Relay, the YMCA, and Open Door Soup Kitchen. “I think it is imperative for student-athlete success to give back through community service,” explained PC Head Softball Coach Britne Stubbs. “We are preaching a liberal, well-rounded education here at PC, and I think that in order to really feel that, we have to work through service initiatives.” Each month is given a different theme by the softball team, which guides the community service in which they participate. Last October, they organized pumpkin carvings with the Clinton YMCA afterschool program and delivered pumpkins to the children there. The team participates in service events year-round and hosts games dedicated to the community during the spring season, like the Breast Cancer Awareness Game and Military Appreciation Game. “The HOPE Relay is one of my favorite team events,” said junior Jennifer Crosthwaite. The event, founded by former PC men’s soccer player Mark Martin ’96, raises money for the Project HOPE Foundation, which serves the autism community in South Carolina. “I not only enjoy raising awareness for autism, but I also enjoy the team bonding and support we give each other as we run. It is such a special event to our team because it is a fun way to do community service and raise awareness for autism. We love to help people, and children have a special place in our hearts.” The team also visited the Greenville Children’s Hospital and spent the afternoon doing arts and crafts with the patients there. “Having the opportunity to visit the Children’s Hospital with the team was a great and humbling experience,” said freshman Jenna Harris. “It was fun to just hang out with kids and try to brighten their day a little and put a smile on their face. The children are motivation to me, and this experience serves as a reminder to keep working hard and persevering to handle adversity, not only in a game, but also in life.” For Coach Stubbs, integrating her team into the community is a natural extension of her role as a coach. “I think it is important for student-athletes to give back to the community. Giving back through service is a great example of how they can grow as leaders and as adults.”
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Harold Nichols ’90 Named Big South Co-Coach of the Year Harold Nichols graduated from PC in 1989 and returned 20 years later to begin his football head coaching career at his alma mater. Coach Nichols came to PC after spending a season with the Bucknell Bison, and this season, Nichols led PC through its most difficult Division I schedule in the program’s history, earning him the 2014-2015 football season Big South Conference Co-Coach of the Year. In his sixth season as head coach of the Blue Hose, PC recorded its first winning season since 2007 and first ever in the Big South Conference. Nichols has seen many victories in his six years at PC. In 2010, he led the team to its first Big South win with a 26-24 victory over Gardner Webb University. In 2011, the Blue Hose finished the season with the team’s highest win total and the first back-to-back wins since 2008. This year, Nichols coached the team to new success in the Division I era, leading PC to a 5-2 record against Football Championship Subdivision teams that included two ranked victories. The Blue Hose defense set new Division I school records for the fewest total yards allowed (4163), opponent points scored (270), opponent touchdowns (36), and opponent total offense per game (378.5 yards). Many Blue Hose athletes have been recognized with awards during Nichols’
tenure at PC. As Nichols began to shape the program to Division I play, three of his student-athletes earned all-conference honors, and wide receiver Patrick McKoy ’12, long snapper Matt Quinn ’10, and defensive standout Justin Bethel ’12 earned Second Team accolades. Bethel also became the Big South all-time leader in blocked kicks, as well as solo tackles. Bethel was the first PC player to be selected in the NFL draft, a sixth round pick of the Arizona Cardinals. Bethel has gone on to be selected for two NFL Pro Bowls on special teams. Nichols continued to lead the team to victory this year with seven Big South weekly awards. Junior linebacker Donelle Williams and junior defensive back Ed Britt earned First Team honors, while senior wide receiver Tobi Antigha, senior offensive lineman Devinn Ritter, and senior long snapper Cannon Jordan received Second Team accolades. Sophomore defensive end Ugonna Akoh earned a spot on the League All-Academic Team. From victories to player awards, no one deserves the title of 2014 Big South Co-Coach of the Year more than Coach Nichols. PC looks forwards to further success from Coach Nichols and a great 2015 season for the Blue Hose.
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Three Members of the PC Family Retiring Dr. John Inman ’73 and Teresa Inman ’74
On April 23, the Presbyterian College faculty issued a resolution in honor of Dr. John Inman’s ’73 retirement stating that he “consistently made decisions based on two important criteria: What is best for our students and what is best for Presbyterian College.” Dr. Inman’s tenure at PC is marked by his many accomplishments. Inman finished his undergraduate experience at PC as the Outstanding Senior and completes his teaching career at PC as the Charles A. Dana Professor of Biology. But it’s what fell in-between graduation and his retirement that defines his lasting legacy of teaching, accomplishments, and honors. Dr. Inman and his wife, Teresa Inman ’74, will both retire this year after 35-year careers with the College. The two met at PC – John was an offensive lineman, and Teresa was a football cheerleader. After college, the couple left PC, but it didn’t take long for them to return to the place where their story began. In 1980, Teresa began working in PC’s James. H. Thomason Library, and eventually became head of the Circulation Department, a position she held for 13 years. John began as an assistant professor, served as the chair of the biology department from 1982-1989, and received tenure and a promotion to associate professor in 1984. Teresa’s most recent position was in the Archives and Special Collections of the PC library. She provided information and images for PC’s Facebook, Instagram, and alumni magazine, as well as to outside researchers. As a member of the archives staff, she was also charged with preserving the institutional memory by collecting clippings, programs from College events, and maintaining the archives of College offices. In the early days of their time at PC, their children got off the school bus at Neville Hall and took piano lessons on campus. Their dog, Stella, was usually on a leash outside Richardson Hall and came to be known as the campus dog – probably the first “therapy dog” ever on campus! Their combined 70 years of experience at PC have
created many fond memories for students. “Thank you for your dedication and encouragement to so many students – some, like my family, spanning generations.” – Caroline McGill ’12 “I felt more proud of those grades I earned in Dr. Inman’s class than any I had received before.” – Mary Douglass Smith ’04 While their impact was felt across campus, whether in the library’s Archives and Special Collections or the halls of Richardson, John recognizes the impact PC has had on him, “I saw Presbyterian as the place where I matured into who I am today. It has been an honor to be associated with this institution.”
Professor Sam Howell ’74
For Professor Sam Howell ’74, his graduation from Presbyterian College did not mark the end of his time at the College. After graduating with a B.S. in business administration, Howell went on to receive his master’s degree in accountancy from the University of South Carolina. He then went on to teach at Winthrop College School of Business Administration before returning to PC in 1980 as an instructor of accounting. After being a part of the Department of Economics and Business Administration for the past 35 years, Howell retired after the 2015 spring semester. In an email to Howell, Kevin McManus ’99 summed up the feelings of many of Howell’s students. “I understand that retirement is upon you, and I wanted to thank you for all that you’ve done over the years for the students and alumni of PC. Any detailed memories that I have of specific classes with you are less important than the overall remembrance that I have of you always being encouraging, firm but fair, and good-spirited each and every day. You have had a truly impactful career.” “If I have left my students with that impression,” said Howell.“I am grateful, for that is always what I tried to do and be.”
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P
Southern Inspiration
resbyterian College sits in the heart of what was once the quintessential Southern mill town. The primary industry was textiles, the primary employers were the mills, and at one point, 60-percent of residents in Clinton and the surrounding area depended on the mills for their livelihood.
PC archives have become a leading regional repository for the history of the textile industry’s once influential prominence in Southern culture. The College holds records from founding mill families, including the Smyth Collection and the Robert Mercer Vance Collection. The archives also house local newspapers, collections of oral history, digital maps, photo-documentation, and other materials. With access to such historically valuable information, PC recently received a $100,000 grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to fund the College’s Textile Mill Memory Project. Funding from the grant will allow faculty and students to analyze and digitize the College’s archives, oral histories, and other local resources in order to chronicle the birth and decline of the textile mill system in the rural South. The project will meet two objectives: to “tell the story” of Clinton and neighboring communities and to enrich the curriculum and student experience at the College by establishing a “learning community” – a cohort of faculty and students working together to build a digital mill village. In addition to documenting the stories of mill workers and the culture and community of the textile industry, the project will create opportunities for collaborative student-faculty research. While exploring these subjects and the eventual decline of the textile industry, students will be exposed to a variety of subjects including English, history, political science, media studies, and women’s studies. The project will be a major component of the College’s Southern Studies minor. The Southern Studies minor focuses on the culture, history, literature, and art of the South, covering periods from the earliest settlers to contemporary times. The minor includes courses such as Appalachian Literature, Southern Women’s Writing, Southern Jewish Literature, Southern Politics, and a Directed Studies course that allows students to pursue a topic of special interest related to southern studies. For Dr. Kendra Hamilton, leading the Southern Studies program at Presbyterian College is a natural fit. Hamilton was born and raised in Charleston, S.C., and graduated from Duke University. She began her career as a journalist in Greenville, S.C., and moved Houston, Texas,
before attending Louisiana State University to receive her MFA. LSU is the home of the Southern Review; and under the direction of the publication’s editor, Dr. James Olney, Hamilton came to love the writing of W.B. Yeats and T.S. Eliot. It was then that she decided to explore writing outside the world of journalism. Dr. Hamilton went on to earn her Ph.D. at the University of Virginia and spent many years in Charlottesville, Va., becoming involved as an elected city-council representative and vice-mayor. Hamilton also founded two community gardens in Charlottesville and a food ministry through Trinity Episcopal Church. Family ties brought Hamilton back to South Carolina in the fall of 2014, when she accepted a position at Presbyterian College as an assistant professor of English. “What struck me was how warm and kind people were,” Hamilton said, as she reflected on her first visits to PC’s campus. After teaching at larger institutions, she quickly realized that PC was a place where she could thrive. “PC reminds me of why we do this in the first place,” explained Hamilton. “We’re helping to shape and form these young people at an important time in their lives, and you do that much better in this kind of environment where there’s much more of a personal connection.” This spring, Dr. Hamilton, other PC staff, and members of the Clinton community orchestrated the Nat Fuller Feast. The event brought African-American and Caucasian community leaders together to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the end of the Civil War. “People think that because they are from the South, they understand Southern culture, but that isn’t always true,” said Hamilton. “There’s so much people don’t know about their history and about the origins and roots of this culture.” The goal of Dr. Hamilton’s work and her dedication to the Southern Studies program at PC is simple – helping students “develop a nuanced understanding of this complex region.” Her work with the Southern Studies program and Textile Mill Memory Project are just a few ways she hopes to accomplish this goal. She believes “funding from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is crucial to keeping the history of not just Clinton, but of mill towns across the South, accessible to any interested parties.”
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Special Olympics: A Long-standing PC Tradition Presbyterian College hosted the Special Olympics April 17 in Bailey Memorial Stadium, with the goal of helping to improve the lives of those with mental disabilities. Today, around 200 million people worldwide suffer from over 250 mental disabilities. Of the 4.6 million American adults with mental disabilities, 92-percent live alone or with family members. Many of them have a career and their own home, but are still overlooked in our society. Athletes traveled to the College from surrounding counties, including Abbeville, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick, and Newberry to participate in this event, where athletes were given a chance to shine. The Special Olympics event was also a day of service in which the whole PC community participated. Student volunteers and local community members helped create a platform to showcase the athletes’ talents. Students and faculty signed up in droves to volunteer, reflecting PC’s motto Dum Vivimus Servimus. Student volunteers like Geena Griffith and Jamie Carlson helped get PC connected with the national Special Olympics organization and coordinated the event. “We feel honored to be able to do so much for these kids,” said Griffith. Griffith and Carlson recruited volunteers to oversee the competitions and manage an “Olympic Village,” where athletes and their families played games run by student organizations. Many local groups pledged their resources to the Special Olympics event, including Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. “We are elated to have the opportunity to assist with the Special Olympics and consider it a privilege to work with all the athletes this year,” said Sawyer Davis, president of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity.
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Alumni Updates We have just completed the 135th academic year at Presbyterian College. Graduation was fantastic with over 300 total graduates, their families, faculty, and staff covering West Plaza on a perfectly beautiful morning on May 9. Graduation is always bittersweet. I remember my own graduation—many, many years ago. Feeling excited, accomplished, and sad, all at the same time. Saying goodbye to this place and its people is not easy. The recessional at graduation is one that truly tugs at my heartstrings and makes me very proud to be a Blue Hose. Our faculty, of course, recess first. As they move past the throngs of chairs towards the middle of West Plaza, they line up single file across from each other creating a “tunnel” for the graduates to walk through as they recess. Once past their family and friends, the graduates walk through this “tunnel,” surrounded by the people who have helped shape them and teach them these past four years—their faculty and mentors clapping, applauding their students for their accomplishments. And of course, all of this with bagpipes playing in the background. Do you have goosebumps yet? Then off into the “real” world our newest alumni go to join the rest of us. I couldn’t help but think how wonderful it is for them and for us. They enter into the larger PC family of alumni, and we gain new friends. This place ties all of us together—no matter how far apart we are from each other or how much time lapses between our seeing each other. Throughout this spring, we have been in several cities for Alumni After Hours gatherings. They have all been invigorating and reassuring that the Blue Hose Nation is alive and well! We plan to continue these types of events throughout the year. If you are interested in having one in your area, give me a call. We also continue working on bringing more alumni back to campus to engage with our students and to connect alumni with each other for professional networking opportunities. Your Alumni Board met in April and will be meeting again in September. Check out our alumni website for a list of current members. As always, please feel free to contact me or them with any suggestions of how we can better engage and serve our alumni. Until next time...Go Blue Hose!
Leni Neal Patterson ’83 Executive Director of Alumni Relations
Alumni Awards Call for Nominations Know a PC alumna or alumnus with something to brag about? Help us by nominating your fellow Blue Hose for the 2015 Alumni Association Awards. A committee of the Alumni Board will choose the award recipients from the pool of nominees and present the awards the Saturday morning of PC Homecoming during the Alumni Association meeting in Edmunds Hall. If you would like to nominate someone for one of the following awards, please send your nomination and supplemental information by July 16, 2015 to Margaret Brown at mhbrown@presby.edu or by mail to: Margaret Brown, Alumni Office Presbyterian College, 503 South Broad St., Clinton, SC 29325. Visit the Alumni website for the qualifications of each award and/or to submit an online nomination for the 2015 awards. Alumni Gold P Award | Mary F. Lehman Alumni Service Award | Outstanding Young Alumnus/na Award | Dum Vivimus Servimus Award | Honorary Alumnus/na Award | Thomas Aurelius Stallworth ’55 Alumni Award
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Classnotes 1974 “It’s good to be a Blue Hose!” Stan Reid ’74 graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary on May 24, 2014, with a Master of Divinity degree while pursuing ordination as a Teaching Elder in the PC (USA) as an inquirer and candidate. Reid said, “Through God’s grace (and a lot of prayer) I received a call to special ministry as stated supply pastor at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church in Mauldin, South Carolina, and was ordained to Special Ministry on February 22, 2015. I began my call at Grace Covenant on March 1, 2015. It’s amazing what can happen in one lifetime with a sound liberal arts education while remaining open to God’s call. In addition, I’ve experienced the continued love of my family and benefited from the wisdom and support of many new friends from seminary and Foothills Presbytery. It’s good to be a Blue Hose!”
Stan Reid ‘74
1959 Erle W. Miles, Jr. ’59 was recognized by Continental Who’s Who as a Pinnacle Professional in the Carpet Industry as a result of his role as president of Testing Services, Inc. Testing Services, Inc. (TSI), formerly Certified Testing Laboratories, was originally established in 1970 as one of the first independent testing laboratories in Dalton, Ga., the “Carpet Capital of the World.” The company now uses the most advanced and up-to-date testing equipment in the carpet industry and has introduced specialized testing procedures that assure the customer of a complete analysis transcript. Additionally, TSI offers tests for most approved federal certifications and requirements of the FAA, FHA/HUD, Department of Interior, Department of Defense, and the Department of Transportation. In his current position as president, Miles specializes in comprehensive testing of carpets, synthetic turf, and textiles for all manufacturers, interior designers, consumers, specifiers, architects, builders, and facility managers on local, state, and federal levels. In addition, Miles works closely with
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client services, and has served as a public speaker for AIA and NEPA Fire Conventions. Throughout his educational career, Miles earned his AB from Presbyterian College as well as his LLB from Atlanta Law School. He has served as a board member of Synthetic Turf Council, ASTM, and NFPA. He is currently a member of ASTM, NFPA, and is a past board member of the Synthetic Turf Council.
1967 Dr. William W. (Woody) Hall, Jr. ’67 will retire from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) at the end of the spring of 2015 academic semester. Hall served almost 41 years as a faculty member. Prior to his UNCW employment, he was on the faculty at Western Carolina University for almost two years. Hall earned his MS and Ph.D. degrees in applied economics from Clemson University in 1969 and 1972, respectively. After retirement, Hall and his wife, Mary Ann, plan to divide their time between visiting their daughters and grandchildren, and spending time in Wilmington.
1970 John Griggs ’70 recently retired from State Farm Insurance and Financial Services in North Myrtle Beach, S.C. Griggs garnered many State Farm awards during his career, which began in 1987, including President’s Club, Chairman’s Council, and Golden Triangle. He is married to the former Karen Stone, Winthrop Class of ’71, and has two sons, John III and Benjamin; daughter-in-law, former Sylvia Potter; and two grandsons, Potter and McCravy (Mac). Griggs is a longtime resident of North Myrtle Beach. He attends Faith Presbyterian Church and is a retired LTC of the U.S. Army Reserve. Laine Ligon, Sr. ’70 was named 2014 REALTOR® of the Year. Winning the title of REALTOR® of the Year requires one to maintain the laws and regulations of the Association of REALTORS®, express concern for the common interest of the public, and encourage good real estate practice among peers, all while upholding good ethical practices. Ligon – Broker in Charge of Bollin Ligon Walker REALTORS® – does just that. He has been a REALTOR® for almost 34 years and truly exemplifies what it means to hold that title. Ligon has been an active member of the Central Carolina REALTORS® Association and has been involved with numerous committees during his tenure. He extends his giving spirit not only to this association, but also through his work with the Columbia Rotary Club and his volunteer contribution to Harvest Hope Food Bank.
1973 Dr. Tom Appenzeller ’73, associate professor and director of sport management at Catawba College, recently delivered the keynote address for the 66th annual state convention for the North Carolina Alliance for Health Physical Education, Recreation, Dance and Sport Management (NCAAHPERD-SM). During the convention held in November of 2014, Appenzeller was also presented with the organization’s Honor Award for Distinguished Service, the highest award offered by the NCAAHPERD-SM. He offered a session on Youth Sport and Child Labor at the convention. Appenzeller joined the Catawba faculty in 2011 after 22 years at Wingate University, where he served as assistant professor of sport management, coordinator of the Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, a Spivey Professor, and finally, an associate professor of sport management.
1979, 2006, 2009 Rentz family welcomes future PC alumni to the world
Ricky ’79, Debbie Burnside Rentz ’79, Neeley Rentz Lane ’06 and Elizabeth Rentz Bain ’09
His prior work experience includes serving as assistant athletic director at Chowan College; athletic director of Riverheads High School in Staunton, Va.; head football and track coach at Elkin High School in Elkin and East Montgomery High School in Biscoe, N.C.; and sports information director at Presbyterian College. A native of Greensboro, Appenzeller earned his bachelor’s degree in history education from Presbyterian College, his M.Ed. degree in history education from UNC Greensboro, his M.S. degree in sport management from the University of Massachusetts, and his Ph.D. degree in physical education from UNC Greensboro. Today, he has four books to his credit: Successful Sport Management (third edition); Youth Sport and the Law: A Guide to Legal Issues; Sports and the Courts; and Cows Are People Too: Lessons from Someone Out Standing in the Field.
Ricky ’79 and Debbie Burnside Rentz ’79 have been married for 35 years. They live in Brunswick, Ga., where Ricky serves as the assistant superintendent of Glynn County Schools and Debbie serves as the special education coordinator of Glynn County Schools. The picture includes daughters, Neeley Rentz Lane ’06, and Elizabeth Rentz Bain ’09. Neeley and her husband, Robert, announce the birth of their second daughter, Paisley Sims Lane. Elizabeth and her husband, Nick, announce the birth of their first daughter, Dorothy (Dottie) Rosemarie Bain. Ricky is pictured holding both of his newest granddaughters. Debbie is pictured holding their first granddaughter, Kately Lane. Also pictured are twins, Maggie and Robbie Rentz, Ricky and Debbie’s youngest daughters. a certified public accountant in 1989. In 2015, he received the SCASBO Outstanding School Business Official award.
1989 Dr. Jeff Edgens ’89 has been named the associate vice president for academic affairs at Thomas University in Thomasville, Ga., with faculty rank as associate professor of political science. He comes to Thomas University from East Georgia State College’s Augusta Campus, where he served as its start-up director and assistant professor. Edgens also served as an assistant professor at East Georgia State College’s Statesboro Campus. His prior positions include dean of external programs at Brewton-Parker
1976 Clay Dykes ’76 has retired and is substitute teaching, playing golf, and singing in the church choir while he waits for his wife, Cindy Kimball Dykes ’77, to retire. The couple plans to then move to Ecuador. They are empty nesters with all four children out on their own: Andy, Frank, Mary Kathryn Endicott ’88, and Thomas.
1982 Steve Mann ’82, executive director of finance for Sumter School District, will join the South Carolina School Boards Association (SCSBA) as director of insurance services for the South Carolina School Boards Insurance Trust (SCSBIT). Mann will follow Dr. Frank Vail, who is retiring on June 30 after seven years of leading SCSBA insurance services and programs. A past president of the South Carolina Association of School Business Officials (SCASBO), Mann has more than 30 years of experience in school finance, business, and operations for the State Department of Education and with various school districts including Richland 2, Lexington 4, and Aiken County. He received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Presbyterian College in 1982 and became
These brilliant and beautiful women are in business with each other, changing skin and changing lives with Rodan + Fields! Left to right: Jane Harper Hicklin ’04, Lisa Pruitt Mundy ‘00, Sara Shackelford McCutcheon ‘03, Sarah Jones Blasek ‘03, Stephanie Vaughn Gamble ‘03, Alexa Chase Pack ‘04, Holly Wiggins Warren ‘04, Betsy Hight Richie ‘02, and Grace Mitchell Timms ‘04. Not pictured: Meredith Schmidt Ritchie ‘02, Becca Watts Wham ‘03, Julianne Meggs Stokes ‘03, Lyndsey Wham Cole ‘04, Mallie Littlejohn DiBiase ‘08, Murray Galloway Cromer ‘01, and Ann Leighton Coleman Jackson ‘08.
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1987 Eric Tillirson calls his PC education “the cornerstone of his professional success” For Eric Tillirson ‘87, a degree in chemistry from PC launched a career that led him to work in a variety of industries including textiles, metal finishing, specialty chemicals, and finally, the kaolin industry. Currently president of Thiele Kaolin Company headquartered in Sandersville, Ga., Tillirson leads a team of approximately 480 employees “in generating value for shareholders, while providing a safe and rewarding work environment.” Thiele Kaolin is one of the world’s leading sources for processed kaolin clay, an essential ingredient in manufacturing china and porcelain. Tillirson calls the company an “industry leader in developing unique products to meet individual customer needs.” With facilities in North America and Europe, Thiele Kaolin’s products are utilized in over 15 countries worldwide. Tillirson began his career working in operations, then transitioned to technical service, followed by sales and marketing. He has “always enjoyed developing solutions to problems, and ultimately seeing proposed solutions provide value to end users.” In 1999, he joined Thiele Kaolin and relocated to Sandersville. He describes the town in middle Georgia as a “quaint, quiet community that proved to be a wonderful environment to raise our two boys.” In addition to serving as the meeting place for Tillirson and his wife, Jennifer Jester ’89, PC provided him with “not only subject matter expertise but with a broad-based, thorough education.” Tillirson’s time at PC taught him how to “think critically, reason effectively, and communicate well both verbally and in writing.” He calls his PC education the “cornerstone” of his professional success. Tillirson stays well connected to PC, maintaining friendships with many classmates and by frequently visiting campus with his sons, Sims ’14 and Joel ’19.
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Friends from the Class of 1990 met at Daufuskie Island for a weekend of fun and catching up. The entire group had not been together since graduation. Photo - Bottom of Stairs to Top of Stairs: Sherilynn Nagel Watts, Kimberly Moore Medlin, Julia Campbell Altman, Jennifer Woodward, and Georgia Shotts Renck
College in Mount Vernon; assistant dean for academic affairs at Georgia Military College, director of Morehead State University at Jackson in Jackson, Ky.; and assistant professor at the University of Kentucky. Edgens holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of West Florida and his Ph.D. degree in environmental policy from Michigan State University. Jeff is married to Janie Evans Edgens, a graduate of Winthrop University. She is an assistant property manager of a seven-complex apartment community throughout Tallahassee, Fla. The couple resides in Thomasville, Ga.
1991 Georgia Army National Guard, LTC John Gentry ’91, assumed Command of the 648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB) during a change of command ceremony held at the National Infantry Museum at Ft. Benning, Ga. Katherine Pope Gentry ’91 and their daughters, Anna and Caroline, participated in the ceremony as well. The Army MEB’s are designed to provide mission command of forces from multiple branches, but especially those that conduct support area and maneuver support operations for the force. It employs them to conduct decisive action in support of Army divisions; echelons above division; and joint, interagency, or multinational headquarters. Gentry is in his 24th year of service in the Army National Guard.
1994 South Carolina CEO lauds PC as something special You’ve probably seen South Carolina at the top of some kind of list lately. Whether it’s the friendliest state or one of the best places to live, South Carolina has been very successful in creating a business climate that fosters innovation and job creation, according to Ted Pitts ‘94, president and CEO of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is the “state’s unified voice for business” and works to attract companies looking to begin a new project, relocate, or expand in the state. Pitts believes the success of South Carolina is due in large part to different arms of the state government “working together as ‘Team South Carolina’” and not competing internally. He relates the cooperation amongst departments to the old saying “A rising tide lifts all boats.” He then adds, “Speaking of boats, our deep water port in Charleston is a world-class facility that, along with our state’s nationally-recognized technical college system, positions us really well in the economic development arena.” Pitts’ affinity for South Carolina extends past its attractiveness as a developing business environment. “South Carolina has a great quality of life – maybe the best in the country – with our pristine natural resources, great climate, and limited overreach
by government.” One added benefit of living in South Carolina is that Pitts stays connected to a wide range of fellow Presbyterian College alumni. “When I was in the Governor’s Office, one of my favorite people to work with in the Governor’s Cabinet was Bill Blume ‘70. Today, our board secretary/office manager here at the Chamber is Caroline Hilliard Donaldson ‘95. My son’s little league basketball coach is Chad Jones ‘95.” The list goes on, and Pitts recognizes the importance of keeping in touch with his Blue Hose roots. Athletics is an easy way for him to stay engaged with the College. “I think it really helps keep alumni like me interested to have good PC alumni like Bret Boulware ‘92, Harold Nichols ‘89, and Elton Pollock ‘95 leading some of our Blue Hose teams.” Another way that Pitts stays connected to the Blue Hose family is returning to Clinton during South Carolina Business Week. For the past 28 years, the College has hosted this SC Chamber-sponsored week-long business camp for 200 high school students from across the state. Representatives from some of South Carolina’s leading corporations introduce students to the leadership, teamwork, self-reliance, and entrepreneurship needed in today’s business environment. Pitts recognizes the benefits programs like these have for students as they grow, graduate from college, and enter the workforce. He jokes, “I still am not sure what I want to be when I grow up, so my liberal arts education from PC has served me well!”
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Kathryn Mahon ’93 was recently promoted to director of development and external relations for Adoption Network Cleveland. She is responsible for all fundraising, marketing, and public relations for the organization. Adoption Network Cleveland connects and empowers individuals, organizations, and communities impacted by adoption and foster care, and provides a source of healing for those in need. Mahon has been with the organization for six years.
Todd Latiff ’96 was appointed executive vice president and chief banking officer, effective May 1, 2015, of Oconee Federal Financial Corp. (the “Company”) and Oconee Federal Savings and Loan Association (the “Bank”) by their board of directors. Latiff has been employed by the Bank since October 2014 as senior vice president and senior banking officer. He has nearly 20 years of banking experience, most recently serving as market president for the Midlands Region of South Carolina at Regions Bank from 2012 to 2014. Prior to that, he served in a number of roles at Carolina First Bank (now TD Bank) from 2002 to 2012, including Oconee County executive, commercial banking manager, and commercial banking team leader. Todd holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Presbyterian College and attended the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University. He has also received Omega Training in commercial underwriting, financial statement analysis, credit risk, and problem asset resolution. Latiff is married to Catherine Martin Latiff ’96.
1995 Jenny Louise Evans ’95 and James Patrick Smith, both of Rock Hill, were married on January 2, 2015, at Bethesda Presbyterian Church in York, S.C. Evans earned a bachelor’s degree in special education from Presbyterian College, and a master’s degree in education from USC. She teaches in the Clover School District. Smith earned an associate degree in industrial technology from York Technology College. He is a service consultant with Burns Chevrolet and Cadillac in Rock Hill. The couple will reside in Rock Hill, S.C.
Dr. David Wilkes ’96 has joined Curtsinger Animal Hospital in Indian Land, S.C., as its second certified canine/ feline specialist. There are only four ABVP certified canine/feline specialists in South Carolina and only 400 in the United States. Wilkes has a bachelor’s degree
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1997 Love for S.C. paralleled by love of alma mater It’s no secret that a Presbyterian College education offers students a wide range of opportunities before they ever don their graduation cap and gown. For David Lominack ‘97, a summer spent as a teller at Carolina First Bank (now TD Bank) before his senior year at PC launched a career in banking that would eventually land him as TD’s market president for the Upstate/Midlands. While working as a teller for Carolina First Bank, Lominack learned about a management training program geared toward individuals interested in a banking career. “I so thoroughly enjoyed my job at the bank and the people I worked with that I decided to give it a try. I also thought that banking would be a great foundation if I decided to go back to school or move into another field of work. So, I applied and was fortunate enough to be hired. And, here I am, 18 years later!” In his current role, Lominack is responsible for the growth and performance of TD Bank’s commercial loan portfolio. He works in cooperation with the heads of TD’s other lines of business to deliver a comprehensive banking experience to customers. His position at TD has also allowed him to continue living in his home state of South Carolina. “Our state has a very positive business climate and a capable workforce where companies can grow and thrive. Our quality of life is unmatched with amenities like the coast and mountains within a short drive and our climate is attractive. I know I sometimes take for granted how special South Carolina is, but a short conversation with someone visiting from out of state quickly reminds me of how much we have to be thankful for.” Lominack’s love of South Carolina is paralleled by his love for PC. “PC gave me such a strong foundation on which to build, and I wouldn’t trade my four years in Clinton for anything. The strong liberal arts education, the ability to learn and test leadership skills through campus involvement, and the relationships I built while in school have been invaluable to me.” Lominack also attributes his strong sense of community engagement and involvement to his time at PC. Dum Vivimus Servimus is lived by Lominack in his role at TD Bank. “At the core, I love what we as bankers get to do to help individuals and companies achieve success.”
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from Presbyterian College and a veterinary medicine degree from the University of Georgia College Veterinary Medicine.
1997 Tricia McKay Powers ’97 is living in Bradenton, Fla. She is the manager of physician relations at Blake Medical Center in Bradenton.
1998 Chris ’98 and Julie Powell Edwards ’97 are proud to announce the birth of their daughter Ella Francis Catherine Edwards on August 28, 2014. Ella Francis joins her big brothers Jackson (11), Bennett (8), and Ryland (4). David Williams ’98 has been named president of Williams & Fudge Inc., a Rock Hill-based collegiate accounts receivable management company. Williams will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the company, including sales, marketing, collections, customer service, and accounting. Williams & Fudge serves more 1,300 colleges and universities in all 50 states and employs more than 380 people at its corporate offices in Rock Hill’s Old Cotton Factory. Williams is a 1994 graduate of Northwestern High School and a 1998 graduate of Presbyterian College. He has been with Williams & Fudge for 15 years. He and his wife Pam live in Rock Hill and attend Oakland Baptist Church. They have a daughter, Taylor, and two sons, Peyton and Coalson. Williams will serve as the chairman of the 2015 Come-See-Me Festival in Rock Hill.
1999 Cindi-Jean Garrett ’99, an experienced real estate advocate who lives in Summerville, S.C., earned a Military Relocation Professional designation, which indicates she can assist military families around metro Charleston. She’s an agent with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Southern Coast Real Estate. Garrett, who once lived in New Jersey and Florida, moved to the Lowcountry in 2011. It was during her time at PC that she realized that South Carolina was where she wanted to call home. After graduating from college, Garrett served in the Army and is an Iraq War veteran. She and her husband Matthew have two children, ages 8 and 5. Katie McGinley ’99 and Larry Pirkle were married on December 6, 2014, at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Ala. Pirkle is a graduate of Furman University. He is currently a partner at a regional CPA firm, Warren Averett, in Birmingham, Ala. Pirkle has a 12-year-old son he adopted from the Ukraine 8 years ago. McGinley is not only a new wife, but also a mother to Theodore and will legally adopt him this year. McGinley has completed her autism spectrum disorder Education Specialist degree at UAB and will continue to work as an autism specialist teaching early childhood special education in Birmingham.
2000 Adam Carter ’00 is chief academic officer at Summit Public Schools, a growing charter network in California dedicated to providing all students
1999 First and only female general manager of an arena in S.C.
PC classmates Anna Kate (Dees) Brown ‘97, Julie (Powell) Edwards ‘97, Beth (Collins) Grindle ‘96, and Dawn (Sherer) Reynolds ‘97 gather together annually with their children at Christmas to decorate and exchange cookies. Pictured here are their 13 children ranging in age from 3 months (Ella Francis Edwards) to 13 years old (Haley Reynolds).
with access to college. The recipient of the California Outstanding New Teacher Award in 2003, Carter helped found Summit Preparatory Charter School in Redwood City, Calif., which was featured in “Waiting for Superman” and recognized by US News and World Report as one of the nation’s ten “Miracle Schools.” Currently, Carter leads the Summit Academics Team, which works tirelessly to support all faculty members in developing self-directed learners. Dan Hart ’00 was recently promoted to partner with Seyfarth Shaw LLP in Atlanta. Hart is a member of the Labor and Employment Department and the Trade Secrets, Computer Fraud and Non-Compete practice group. He focuses his practice on representing companies in employment-related litigation, including harassment, discrimination, restrictive covenant, trade secrets, and wage and hour cases. Hart has defended hundreds of lawsuits and investigative matters alleging violations of state and federal employment laws. Outside the courtroom, Hart provides day-to-day counseling and advice to employers about the various laws affecting the employment relationship, including Title VII, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and other state and federal statutes. A frequent speaker and blogger on trade secrets and non-compete issues, he regularly advises employers on developing strategies for protecting their trade secrets, confidential information, and customer goodwill through the use of restrictive covenants and other practical measures. Combining his passion for international business with a decade of experience as an employment litigator and counselor, Hart focuses his counseling practice on advising foreign-based companies on the intricacies of U.S. employment, trade secrets, and non-compete law. Lee Davis Tyler ’00, a second-grade teacher at Manning Primary School in Manning, S.C., was named the school’s Teacher of the Year. She has eight years experience as a classroom teacher and six years as a district
Beth Paul ‘99 was appointed as general manager of the Bon Secours Wellness Arena by the Greenville Arena District Board of Directors earlier this year. She served as the Arena’s interim general manager since November and has worked with the Arena for over nine years as its assistant general manager and director of finance. Prior to becoming the director of finance at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena, she was the director of finance at the Harbor Yard Arena (now Webster Bank Arena) in Bridgeport, Conn. At a press conference hosted at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena this March, Paul said, “I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead this great organization. I look forward to contributing to the expansion of event programming and continuing to work with the dedicated Arena staff to provide exciting entertainment options and excellent customer service.” She is the only female general manager of an arena in South Carolina and one of only a handful in the country. home-based instructor. She has a bachelor’s degree in special education and elementary education with a minor in psychology from Presbyterian College, graduating cum laude in 2000. She has a Master of Education degree in divergent learning from Columbia College. “Knowing I played a small role in helping to form so many great works of art is one of the most rewarding parts of my career in education,” Tyler said. “I love being able to stand back and watch my current and former students strive to reach their full potential both in and outside the classroom, and I consider it a privilege and honor to be a part of the process,” she said. Tyler is a member of the Palmetto State Teachers Association and has been nominated to be a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional sorority dedicated to education and service. She is an active member of Seacoast Church, where she serves on the worship team and helps lead Custom, the youth group that consists of sixth- through 12th-grade students. She serves as Nic @ Nite team leader. Lee has led a small group Bible study and volunteered with various activities in the Clarendon community, serving as an assistant T-ball coach for the Recreation Department. She is a member of the Manning Athletic Club and enjoys supporting all the athletic teams of Clarendon 2 schools. Lee is married to Jamie Tyler ’00, a social studies teacher and football coach at Manning High School. They have two children, Thomas, a second-grader at Manning Primary, and a daughter, Ellison, a first-grader at Manning Early Childhood Center.
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2005 PC gets it ’Wright’ with dedicated faculty Mike Wright ‘05 was recently named to The State’s “20 Under 40” list, which honors 20 rising business stars under the age of 40. The list recognizes people making an impact in their workplaces, their neighborhoods, and their professions. As a partner at Savage, Royall, and Sheheen, LLP in Camden, S.C., Wright is doing just that. He handles everything from business litigation and estate planning to personal injury and criminal defense. He also serves as the prosecutor for the City of Camden, handling the prosecution of criminal matters for misdemeanor offenses. Wright credits his successes in the workplace to his parents and the Presbyterian College faculty. “The College hires excellent faculty who are invested in the community and, most importantly, interested in the success of its students,” explained Wright. “I, like so many other individuals, had professors who wanted to make sure that we succeeded not only in the classroom, but in life. We had teachers whose focus was not just on the course material, but also on our future careers.” Wright continued, “The well-rounded liberal arts education that I received--whether in a classroom or in a professor’s home--prepared me for my post-graduate education, my interactions with clients and members of the General Assembly, and my service to those in the community.” Although a good part of his time is spent in the courtroom, Wright is glad that courtroom is in his home state of South Carolina. “Our state has so much to offer in terms of its intrinsic beauty - from the foothills of the Upstate to the sun and surf of the coast to great hikes in many of our state parks. Despite all of that, I truly think the people of this great state are what draws people here the most. Whether knowingly or not, our citizens embody the state’s motto of ‘While I breathe, I hope.’”
2001 Bryan
Bryan Betsill ’01 and Holly Dunlap Betsill ’06, welcomed their second daughter Blakely Page Betsill into the world on November 17, 2014. They currently live in Greenville, S.C., where their older daughter, Breleigh Anna Betsill (age 4), is enjoying being a big sister. Carter Robinson ’01 was installed as the pastor of Glades Presbyterian Church in Boca Raton, Fla., on April 19, 2015. Robinson has been an ordained pastor for seven years and is excited about his new calling in South Florida. Robinson said he and his wife Kristin are blessed to now be living in Florida.
2002 Nicolas L. Haigler ’02, an attorney with Sowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLC since 2007, has become the firm’s newest member. The firm is located in Columbia, S.C. Haigler, a native of Irmo, S.C., earned a bachelor’s degree from Presbyterian College in 2002 (where he lettered in men’s soccer) and his law degree from Mississippi College School of Law in 2007. While in law school, he earned the American Jurisprudence Award in Sports Law and Trial Practice, the Herman and Martha Scholarship for Civic Leadership, and was competition chairman for the Moot Court Board. More recently, he received the Glenn Jacobus Award presented by Leadership Columbia and was named to the honor roll of the South Carolina Bar Pro Bono Program. He is the current chairperson of the Leadership Columbia advisory board and a member of Kids’ Chance of South Carolina board of directors as well as a member of the Columbia Chamber board of directors. Haigler’s practice at Sowell Gray focuses on workers’ compensation. Robbie Timms ’02 has been promoted to vice president with BB&T in Florence, S.C. Timms is a private financial advisor in the wealth department. He has been with BB&T since May 2013.
2003 Skye Earls Replogle ’03 and Stephen Replogle ’02 welcomed their daughter, Vivian Beulah Replogle, on June 27, 2014. The family resides in Washington, D.C. This summer, Skye will be celebrating her 10th year working for the National Geographic Channels, where she is currently the executive director of multiplatform programming. Stephen is a principal with Cove Strategies, a legislative, communications, and political consulting firm. In 2011, the Washingtonian magazine named Stephen one of the Top Forty Lobbyists under Forty.
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2007 Credits PC for her desire to be a voice for others For Brittany Reese ’07, her decision to serve on Presbyterian College’s Board of Trustees as one of two alumni association representatives was an easy decision. “My husband and I both had wonderful experiences at PC, and I feel personally indebted to the college for all that it has given to me,” explains Reese. “I’m excited to be a part of the team that is helping shape the direction of the College for years to come.” After graduating from Presbyterian College with a bachelor’s degree in English and political science, Reese continued her education at Mercer’s Walter F. George School of Law as a Woodruff Fellow. While at Mercer, she earned a certificate in advanced legal writing, research, and drafting, served as lead articles editor of the Law Review, a member of the
National Moot Court team, and the American Bar Association representative. She received the National Association of Women Lawyers Award and was selected as a member of the Brainerd Currie Honor Society. Reese currently works as the Assistant United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia where she represents the United States in civil litigation. She has worked on cases ranging from prosecuting health care fraud and military procurement fraud, to defending employment discrimination claims brought by federal employees. “I think the practice of law, in many respects, is best suited for those who enjoy serving others and being a catalyst for change,” said Reese. “PC instilled in me an appreciation for service and the importance of using your talents and abilities to pursue what is good and be a voice for others. The classes I took and organizations I was involved in at PC also gave me an opportunity to examine what really matters to me - in terms of my faith, my political opinions, my passions, and interests - and those times of self-reflection really shaped who I am.”
Jessica Blount Wolff ’04 and her husband, Bernard, welcomed their first son, Bernard James, on August 8, 2014. The family resides in Roswell, Ga.
2004 Jane Harper Hicklin Dollason ’04 and husband, Patrick, announce the birth of their son, Henry Walker Dollason. Henry was born April 25, 2015. Proud grandfather is Rob Hicklin ’71.
2005
Katie Herndon ’04 was a finalist in Lexington School District #1 for Teacher of the Year. She has 11 years of educational experience, a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Presbyterian College, a master’s degree in literacy education from Cambridge College, and a master’s in educational administration from the University of South Carolina. Herndon is certified in early childhood education and elementary administration. A National Board Certified Teacher, she is a Certified South Carolina Mentor teacher, a SAFE-T evaluator and a member of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, South Carolina State Council of the International Reading Association, South Carolina Department of Education Read to Succeed Coaching Institute and Professional Literacy Cohort, and the Lexington One Technology Users Group. Ann-Marie Alfonso Pearson ’04 and husband, Christian, welcomed their daughter, Genevieve McMullen Pearson, born February 1, 2014. The family resides in Tampa, Fla.
Cathy Marshall Voelker ’05 graduated from Clemson University in December 2013 with her master’s degree in nursing administration. She is currently employed with Spartanburg Regional Medical Center in Spartanburg, S.C., as a registered nurse. Voelker has a two-year-old son, Jackson Thomas Voelker, who was born on October 29, 2012.
2006 Patricia Cole Ard ’06 has finished her ninth year of teaching first grade in Charleston and was named Teacher of the Year for 2015 at her school. She graduated from the Citadel Graduate College in May 2015 with a master’s of education degree with an emphasis in literacy education with distinction (4.0). Lauren Scoggins ’06 is now the director of investor and public relations with Upstate SC Alliance, the public/private economic development group designed to market and brand the Upstate South Carolina region. In this role, she will be responsible for managing and growing the relationships of the organization’s investors, securing new investors, and enhancing fund development strategies. After
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2006 Lt. Brown credits PC for her work ethic Lt. Lauren Brown ’07 recently received one of the most prestigious military honors as she was selected as Provider of the Year for Naval Health Clinic Charleston (NHCC). Lt. Brown, who is a Navy physical therapist and is the director of physical and occupational therapy at NHCC, said she was humbled when she found out she had won the coveted award. “I was up against very experienced and well respected providers. I was honored to be nominated against such quality people that I never thought I would receive the award. It just proves that working hard does not go unnoticed.” Lt. Brown attended PC on a tennis and basketball scholarship and graduated magna cum laude in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. She graduated magna cum laude from the Medical University of South Carolina with a doctorate degree in physical therapy. She worked as a civilian physical therapist, then entered the Navy Medical Service Corps as a lieutenant. She became the first female physical therapist assigned to a Navy special operations task force, and is one of only 30 Navy providers to earn certification as an Orthopedic Certified Specialist. Brown said her future plans include attending West Point to become a Sports Certified Specialist in physical therapy. working at the South Carolina State House for two years, Scoggins moved to the Greenville area in 2008 and began her career in the nonprofit fund development field. She has worked as a community director for the March of Dimes, director of development and communications at Pendleton Place for Children and Families, and as director of development at the Institute for Child Success. Scoggins holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with minors in business administration and sociology from Presbyterian College, and is a graduate of both Opportunity Greenville and the Women’s Leadership Institute of Furman University.
2007 Kaitlin McShea ’07 married Dr. Reid Messich on December 20, 2014. McShea is a senior designer at the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government and specializes in downtown master planning. Messich is the associate professor of oboe at UGA’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music and a regular performer with the Iris Orchestra in Memphis, Tenn. The couple will reside in Athens, Ga.
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Cameron Ross Simonds ’07 and Sara Leigh Tabor were married December 31, 2014, at the Vinoy Renaissance Hotel in St. Petersburg, Fla. Simonds is a senior investment advisor at Nicholas Hoffman, an investment firm in Atlanta, Ga. Tabor manages audits in the Atlanta office of Deloitte, the accounting and financial services firm. She graduated from Vanderbilt and earned a master’s degree in accounting.
2008 Kyle Craven ’08 and Lacey Long Craven ’07 were married in 2010. On January 25, 2015, they welcomed to the world their first future Blue Hose, Elizabeth “Liza” Hendrix Craven.
Rachel Elizabeth DeWyngaert ’08 and William James Workman ’07 are to be married August 29, 2015, in Montreat, N.C. The bride-elect is a graduate of Presbyterian College and The Graduate School of the College of Charleston. She is the finance manager for the Office of Cultural Affairs for the City of Charleston. The groom-elect is employed by Windstream Communications and is a volunteer coach for Little League of Charleston. Lindsey Courter Evans ’08 of Greensboro, and Stephen Highsmith Adams of Charlotte, are to be married June 27, 2015 at First Presbyterian Church in Greensboro, N.C. where the bride-elect serves as the director of youth ministry. The groom-elect is a graduate of Furman University and is VP in enterprise capital planning and strategy at Bank of America in Charlotte.
2009 James Conway Todd IV ’09 of Laurens, S.C., and Alexandra Marie Moor of Vero Beach, Fla., are to be married in August in Vero Beach. Moor is a graduate of the College of Charleston, with a master’s degree in education from the University of South Carolina. She will be employed as a teacher with Laurens School District #55. Todd is a graduate of Presbyterian College, and received a Juris Doctorate degree from Charleston School of Law. He is an attorney with the firm of Townsend and Thompson in Laurens.
2010 Sarah Bellacicco-Zimbardi ’10 graduated in May 2014 from the University of Georgia Law School. She passed the Georgia bar in October 2014 and began working for the Fulton County Public Defender’s office in Atlanta on April 1, 2015.
Stephen Clifton ’10 is the vice president of the PM Realty Group and was recently recognized on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s ‘30 Under 30’ list which honors top young leaders making a difference in metro Atlanta. Ben Ewing ’10 has been accepted to Columbia University for a master’s degree in educational leadership in independent schools beginning this fall. Dr. Kathryn M. Falk ’10, and groom, Dr. Rodney M. Johnson, were married on May 16, 2015. Dr. Falk recently earned the title of Fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry and is employed by Dublin Eye Associates. Dr. Johnson, a board certified allergist and physician of internal medicine, owns Middle Georgia Allergy and Asthma, which opened in February 2015. The couple plans to reside in Dublin, Ga., their hometown.
2011
Members of Theta Chi, Jamel Roberts ’14, Nathan Crocker ’14, Colt Crymes ’14, Will Varner ’14, and Mack Spangenberg ’14 took the weekend before St. Patrick’s Day to visit Andrew Kocis ’14 in Chicago. They enjoyed the dyeing of the Chicago River, a bar-crawl, and the St. Patrick’s Parade in the city, among other festivities over the weekend. The group also celebrated Colt’s and Nathan’s birthdays’ while there.
Kayla Elizabeth Peterson ’11 and Jared Preston Tavernier ’11 were married on March 21, 2015, at West Hartsville Baptist Church in Hartsville, S.C. The bride is currently at the Medical University of South Carolina where she will obtain a masters of physician assistant studies degree in August 2015. The groom is currently at the Medical University of South Carolina where he will obtain a doctorate of dental medicine degree in May 2015. Included in the wedding party were: Emily Grice Wilson ’11, Perrin Quinn Tribble ’11, Kathryn Baker Granitz ’11, Adam Peterson ’14, Robert Stubbs ’11, and Ivey Shingler ’11. Upon graduation from MUSC, the couple will reside in Greenwood, S.C.
Holley Marie Hutto ’13 and Corbin Lenare Matthews were married on July 27, 2014, at T&S Farm in Batesburg, S.C. The wedding party included PC Graduates Taylor Brazell ’15, Valerie Moody ’15, Molly Kent ’13, Molly McKenna ’13, Katie Wilson ’13, Micah Mallory McCall ’10, and Thomas Geene ’13. The couple resides in Pelion, S.C.
John “Ivey” Monroe Shingler IV ’11 and Ashla Wren Anderson were married on Saturday, May 16, 2015, at First Presbyterian Church of Greenwood, S.C. The bride is a graduate of Lander University and the Medical University of South Carolina with a masters in health administration degree. Ashla works in the development department at Hospice of the Upstate in Anderson. The groom is a graduate of Presbyterian College and the College of Charleston with a master of science in accountancy degree. Shingler is a CPA with Elliott Davis Decosimo, LLC. After a honeymoon in St. Lucia, the couple will reside in Greenville.
Mary Auburn Shuler ’13 and Blake Edward Whitney ’09 were married January 10, 2015, at St. Luke’s Chapel in Charleston, S.C. Shuler is currently pursuing a master’s degree in communication disorders and speech language pathology at the University of South Carolina. Whitney received a master’s degree in higher education business administration from the University of South Carolina in 2014. The couple will reside on Lake Marion in Vance, S.C.
Meghan Elizabeth Skinner ’11 and Arthur Buist Jordan were married March 8, 2015, at Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church in Mount Pleasant, S.C. Skinner graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina, College of Medicine, in May 2015. Jordan is a graduate of The Citadel and graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina, College of Medicine, in May 2015.
2012 Julius Odell (Tripp) Spradley III ’12 and Anne Colwell Leach were married January 17, 2015, at the Trinity Audubon Center in Dallas, Texas. The bride received a bachelor’s of science in business management degree at the University of Denver in Denver, Colo., and is currently enrolled in the Biblical Counseling program at Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas. The groom is currently enrolled in the master’s of divinity program at Redeemer Seminary in Dallas.
2013
2014 Christopher Hall ’14 is currently working as a news/sports reporter with The Herald News in Dayton, Tenn. His responsibilities include general news, feature stories, sports, and a weekly column. He previously worked as a news reporter intern in his home town of Seneca, S.C., with his local newspaper, The Journal.
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In Memory Of Colin M. Hudson, Ph.D. ’36 of Asheville, N.C., died January 19, 2015, at the age of 99.
John Kountz Roberts III ’61 of Harrisonburg, Va., died November 29, 2014.
William Plumer Jacobs III ’40 of Clinton, S.C., died January 26, 2015, at the age of 96.
Robert Gary DeLoach ’62 of Chapin, S.C., died December 20, 2014.
Margie Young Leaman ’44 of Whitmire, S.C., died August 1, 2014, at the age of 90. Alexander Cruickshanks III ’47 of Clinton, S.C., died February 25, 2014, at the age of 95. William H. Anderson ’48 of Conneaut, Ohio, died April 14, 2015, at the age of 88. Paul W. Brady ’48 of Marble Falls, Texas, died February 9, 2014, at the age of 87. Betty Taylor Copley ’48 of Newberry, S.C., died August 15, 2014, at the age of 87. Dr. David R. Moorefield ’48 of Clinton, S.C., died December 29, 2014, at the age of 85. The Rev. William (Bill) E. Lytch ’49 of San Antonio, Texas, died September 12, 2014, at the age of 85. The Rev. Frederic R. Dinkins ’50 of Fayetteville, N.C., died October 16, 2014, at the age of 88. Milton Tippin ’50 of Rome, Ga., died November 5, 2014, at the age of 88. Robert Westbrook ’50 of Newton, N.C., died February 15, 2015, at the age of 86. Warren Arnold “Steve” Steverson ’51 of Mint Hill, N.C., died February 27, 2015, at the age of 88. Thomas Walter (T.W.) Edwards ’52 of Spartanburg, S.C., died March 31, 2015, at the age of 85.
Robert L. Wylie III ’63 of Greenville, S.C., died January 22, 2015. Jack Warren Greene ’65 of Fort Mill, S.C., died October 7, 2014, at the age of 71. Whiteford C. (Butch) McWaters, Jr. ’66 of Clover, S.C., died November 27, 2014, at the age of 70. Terry Dye ’68 of Panama City, Fla., died February 10, 2015, at the age of 68. Edmond Collins Gregory ’68 of Danville, Va., died December 8, 2014, at the age of 69. Floyd R. (Deekie) Harper, Jr. ’68 of Johns Island, S.C., died February 16, 2015, at the age of 68. Sue Osborne Myers ’68 of Columbia, S.C., died December 27, 2014, at the age of 67. Horace Leland Bomar III ’70 of Spartanburg, S.C., died February 10, 2015, at the age of 66. Wilkie Schell Colyer ’71 of Atlanta, Ga., died November 25, 2014, at the age of 65. Robert (Bobby) McKee ’80 of Hickory, N.C., died January 1, 2015, at the age of 58. William (Bill) Earl ’83 of Tempe, Ariz., died November 2, 2014, at the age of 53. Benjamin M. Hood ’81 of Greensboro, Ga., died March 23, 2015, at the age of 57.
William E. Brake ’53 of Georgia died April 15, 2015, at the age of 84.
Robin Carter Russell ’90 of Burlington, N.C., died March 29, 2015, at the age of 47.
Roland F. Cinciarelli ’53 of Oceanside, Calif., died February 23, 2015, at the age of 85.
Anthony T. Hammond ’98 of Greer, S.C., died January 11, 2015, at the age of 38.
Robert Thomas Guillebeau ’53 of Evans, Ga., died January 9, 2015, at the age of 82.
Robert (Rob) Camden Mason ’05 of Pawleys Island, S.C., died December 24, 2014, at the age of 31.
James S. Brickell ’57 of Charlotte, N.C., died March 25, 2014, at the age of 79.
Dorothy Chapman Fuqua, Past Board of Trustees Member, died January 23, 2015, at the age of 93.
Edward Francis (Ted) Leahy III ’59 of Suwanee, Ga., died March 19, 2015, at the age of 78.
William (Bill) G. Moore, Past Board of Trustees Member, died April 17, 2015, at the age of 84.
Nathaniel (Nat) R. Cole ’61 of Bossier City, La., died February 5, 2015 at the age of 77.
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1940 We will remember P3 with every “Great Presbyterian, Hail to Thee” William Plumer Jacobs III ’40
The Presbyterian College community lost a beloved member of the PC family in January - William Plumer Jacobs III, the great-grandson of the founder of Presbyterian College. Known affectionately by many as “P3” and to others as “Jake,” William was an alumnus of PC who graduated in 1940. Like his great-grandfather before him, he believed in service to others. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Infantry and served in Italy during WWII. He served in the Army Reserve for 20 years and retired as a Major. The idea of service and others-over-self that was initially woven into the fabric of the PC culture by Dr. William Plumer Jacobs I was carried on by “P3.” That legacy continues to be seen on the PC campus everyday. Also like his great-grandfather, “P3” had a deep love for the College. During his years as a student, “P3” was involved in various activities, like the tennis team, the school newspaper, and leading the College radio station. Even after graduation, “P3”
was a constant figure on the campus of Presbyterian College, attending various events, especially football and basketball games. He was on the sidelines of the court in Templeton cheering on his beloved Blue Hose two weeks before his death. Among many memories and legacies that Jacobs left behind, his authorship of the Presbyterian College “Alma Mater” stands as a very important one to many students, alumni, faculty, and staff who have studied, taught, and worked on our campus. He wrote these lyrics while a student at PC: “Alma mater, Hail to thee. Everyone sings praise to thee. Thou art built on faith; we have faith in thee. Here we stand now side by side, Singing praise to thee. Great Presbyterian, Hail to Thee.” William Plumer Jacobs III, our beloved “P3,” would undoubtedly be overjoyed by all of you who have shown your love for PC and have continued his and his great-grandfather’s legacies of service and philanthropy.
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Presbyterian College Alumni
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Forever Loyal
Is a Charity Gift Annuity right for you? A new Planned Giving strategy available at Presbyterian College
You want to give to Presbyterian College, but you need to make sure you have enough to live on during retirement. The Presbyterian College Foundation now has a solution – Charitable Gift Annuities (CGA). How a CGA works: A $100,000 CGA for a 70 year old currently has an American Council on Gift Annuities (ACGA) rate of 5.1%. This provides a donor $5,100 in income per year for life. Things to remember: • Tax implications will vary based on how the donor makes the gift, receives the income, how the charity pays out and structures the income, and a donor’s tax bracket; • Interest rates will vary based on age; • You can give today and start taking income in the future. Interested in learning more? Contact Director of Planned Giving Jonathan Polson at 864.833.8292 or 803.348.7795 or email at Jpolson@presby.edu. We will be glad to help you and speak with your advisors in order to find the best solution for your personal goals and needs that will also benefit generations of PC students.
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Office of Alumni Relations Presbyterian College 503 South Broad St. Clinton, SC 29325
Presbyterian College Homecoming
2015
October 16-17 #PCHomecoming
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